Prisoner Caught with Mobile Phone, Holding ‘Compromising’ Data

A storm is brewing within the Mauritian prison system, following the discovery of a mobile phone in the possession of a prisoner. Just two weeks ago, a state-of-the-art Samsung Z Flip was found during a routine search of Block B at Beau-Bassin prison.

The phone was traced back to a South African inmate, who in turn implicated a fellow prisoner serving time for drug trafficking.

The individual is allegedly a “key player” in the prison’s narcotics network. He was moved to La Bastille prison in Phoenix around one week ago.

While the mere presence of a mobile phone within prison walls is a grave security breach, the contents of this device are what have truly set alarm bells ringing.

Defi Media has claimed that the phone contained compromising photos, videos and contact details of high-ranking prison officers, both male and female.

This information, it is alleged, could prove deeply damaging to the prison administration.

The device has now been sent to the police’s IT Unit for analysis.

The discovery of the Samsung Z Flip pointed to a potentially organised system, where connections between the inmate and influential members of the prison administration appeared to be a reality.

How could such a device bypass the strict security protocols governing the entry and exit of items into the prison?

Who are the figures within the administration whose names and images are said to be stored on the phone?

Whispers of collusion between powerful prisoners and certain prison staff are nothing new.

The 2018 report by the commission of inquiry, led by former judge Paul Lam Shang Leen (PLSL), highlighted this very issue.

However, this latest development provided concrete evidence that could escalate the situation dramatically.

The report spoke of “a well-oiled network, where some officers turn a blind eye in exchange for favours or money,” asserting that “drug trafficking in prisons is only possible with internal complicity.”

In the wake of the brewing scandal, an internal investigation has reportedly been launched. Another informant based in the “General Duties” department, when questioned on the situation, responded in a written message saying:

“The warden was paid to bring the mobile in. A phone of this value would never be thrown over the prison wall. It came in through someone’s hands.”

When approached by Defi Media for comment, the acting Commissioner of Prisons remained tight-lipped.

“I can’t tell you anything. It’s confidential,” he reportedly stated, despite repeated questioning.

“You already have your informants, who are very reliable within the prisons. Please confirm the information with your sources.”

The acting Commissioner did concede that “an investigation is underway”.

But what is its scope? What is its aim?

The answers remain shrouded in secrecy. “I can’t tell you anything. It’s confidential,” he reportedly reiterated, unyielding.

Source: Defi Media